Danny Green Defends Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic Against Flopping Claims

Flopping in the NBA continues to stir debate among fans and analysts, who often view it as a detriment to the sport’s integrity. Despite its controversial nature, it is a tactic employed by many players, especially when the stakes are high. Recently, former NBA player Danny Green voiced his opinion, defending Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Luka Doncic against accusations of flopping during a discussion on the podcast “No Fouls Given.”

The conversation emerged after Celtics star Jaylen Brown expressed his aversion to flopping, prompting the hosts to identify the top five floppers in the league. Big Wos highlighted players like Joel Embiid and Jalen Brunson, along with Marcus Smart, but when it came to Gilgeous-Alexander, Wos argued against including him in that category. He stated, “I don’t think Shai is a flopper. I think he is good at initiating the contact, and as soon as it happens, letting you know.”

Green echoed Wos’s sentiments, emphasizing that Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to “sell calls” effectively contributes to his game. Over the past two seasons, the guard has excelled at drawing fouls, which has significantly enhanced his scoring opportunities, particularly from the free-throw line. His unique skill set allows him to control the pace of the game while capitalizing on defensive contact.

The discussion then shifted to Doncic, with Green dismissing the notion that the Dallas Mavericks star should be labeled a flopper. He pointed out that players like Doncic, Gilgeous-Alexander, and rising talent Austin Reaves create contact rather than merely falling to the ground. “When you say flop, it’s a guy that’s actually on the floor,” Green noted, distinguishing between strategic contact creation and outright flopping.

Pierce added to the conversation, highlighting how the perception of flopping is often tied to specific player behaviors. “What we mean by flop, they kind of snap their head back a lot. Extra,” he quipped, showcasing the often subjective nature of the term.

The dialogue underscored the fine line between skillful gamesmanship and blatant flopping in today’s NBA. As players adapt to the evolving dynamics of the sport, drawing contact has become a nuanced art form. Those who can master it, such as James Harden and Brunson, frequently find themselves under scrutiny, facing criticism for their methods while reaping the benefits in terms of scoring opportunities.

Ultimately, the conversation about flopping is unlikely to dissipate anytime soon. As long as referees continue to wield the power to influence game outcomes with their calls, players will continue to refine their techniques, pushing the boundaries of what constitutes legitimate contact. Whether viewed as clever strategy or theatrical performance, flopping remains an integral aspect of modern basketball, ensuring that debates around its merits will continue among fans and analysts alike.